Photo - December 30, 2013

Christmas with Sister Wheeler

"Home for the Holidays" - Letter, December 30, 2013

Ok, so this week was really good. I had a great Christmas. I may have been quite away from my home for Christmas, I was made to feel at home. The Cherry Grove Ward really took care of us. 1st off, we were given a pair of pajamas on Christmas Eve. Sister Wheeler got a pair of pink ones. Hahahah! That's funny because she doesn't like pink. And then on Christmas she got a pair of pink socks. I was highly amused. But the point is that we didn't go without for our holiday. And then we had our own Christmas morning. We were lent a 12 inch Christmas tree, and we put all our packages under it. It was great.  

This entire transfer we have struggled to get our 20 lessons a week, and this week we hit 24. What!!!! It is a miracle. We have had a lot slowly changing in good ways. It makes me so happy.

Well, I don't have a lot to say other than that. Just know that I love you and that I can feel all of your prayers. They are the best Christmas gifts you could give.

Ok, and as far as investigators go, we have a couple that need prayers.

Stacy and Jessica. Stacy is 14, and Jessica is her mom. They both have had a really rough background and they are both really serious in trying to come closer to Christ, but they need a little help to understand how to do that. So pray for them that they will receive the answers that they need.

Well, I love you and I hope you are all doing well. I hope you will have a great New Years. As you set your goals, read 3 Nephi 27: 25-26, and consider if you keeping your goals. Do you write them down and then keep them? God writes them down, and so should you. Remember that.

"Ho ho ho!!! Merry CHRISTmas" - Letter, December 23, 2013

Ok, so this week has been great. I have learned so much and grown so much. I have come so much closer to my Savior. I have found joy in my work and peace in my life. Cherry Grove is has been such a gift to me. I am surrounded by people that I swear that I knew from home. I think that it's because I have grown so much closer to the Spirit that I am able to more easily recognize the people that I knew on the other side of the veil. All too often, we think of people we don't know as strangers. But that isn't too true is it? No, we may have forgotten, but that doesn't mean that we don't remember them. I love the people here.

1. Investigators: When I got here, there were a lot of people that they were working with, some more serious than others. For some reason, things have not been going as well in that department. But, I can honestly say that I have come to love the ones we have and that we are finding. There is a member here who has referred two of her friends to us and while things are moving slowly, it is good. We have had several contacts with both. It's gonna be great. I can feel it.

2. Less-Actives: Both of us have felt a strong desire to work with less-actives. For some reason, that is where we feel we are meant to be. I know that as we work with them, and help some of them come back into the fold of God, we will see many good things. I am excited.

3. Christmas: I have been doing really good as far as not being homesick. But this past couple of days have gotten to me a bit. But I know that because I am out serving the Lord, I will be blessed. But more importantly, others will be blessed. I will be here so that God can bless other people's lives. Christ really is the reason for the season. And while people forget that all too often, I am constantly reminded of it. I am constantly being brought to a remembrance of My Savior and how much he Loves and cares for me.

May God bless, and may you feel the love of the Savior in your Christmases.

Love, Sister Worthen

"Long Weeks Like This" - Letter, December 16, 2013

So, weeks like this should be few and far between, if ever. This has honestly been a learning week and one that I have not enjoyed too much. I don't want to be a downer, but it's the truth. And honestly, it's my fault. Ok, not entirely. But things have been in transition mode for me personally and I have not transitioned very well. But this week, I am going to do much better. I have learned a lot and I have gained some great experience to help me improve. 

This area has been hard because I haven't felt like I had a direction to go. There is so much to do and I have no idea where to start. Thing is, I should be moving and a grooving already. So I spent the week feeling a little sorry. But I got a huge wakeup call on Friday morning. Almost literally. This lady had called us the night before after we went to bed. We did not answer. She left a message and we called her the next morning, after listening to her message. She broke down on the phone and told me how much help she needed. We called her back and I had a long talk with her. Afterward, I finally felt like I had a purpose here. I realized that I needed someone's problems to help fix for me to be happy. Problem is, when I do have someone to help like that, it's hard because I get so involved in their life. But it's ok, because I have the Savior to help them. I just get to help them find the way. I am the guide, but Christ built the path. So, anyway, now I have problems to fix and that makes me happy. And I have still not met this lady in person, but I love her already. I realized today while writing a letter that even though I know all the nitty gritty details of people's lives and secrets that I wish never to even think of again, I cannot help but love these people. There is nothing so wonderful as feeling the Savior's love for them. Nothing they do can make me hate them as long as I am fulfilling my calling. I also realized that without that love, there is no purpose to me being here. If I pass judgment on them, then how can I love them with a pure love, and thus desire the safety of their souls? It won't work that way.  

So, I know that Christ loves all of us, and that His Father, our Father, loves us. We are blessed to have the two most powerful beings working for our safety. And also the Holy Ghost. He always seems to be forgotten when we consider the love of the Godhead. They all love us and work endlessly for us. I know this. 

I also came to realize the true meaning of Christmas. The verse below is my current favorite verse. The simplicity and power are amazing. So, read it, and then consider if you were to tell someone your simple testimony of the Savior, in one sentence, how powerful would that statement be? The true meaning of Christmas is that Christ died to redeem us.

I love you, and I am hoping you have a wonderful Christmas season. 

Love, Sister Worthen

"There are no words..." - Letter, December 2, 2013

Ok, let me just say that this week has been a trip. 1st, I got transferred. That's right folks. I flew the coop. I am now in Cherry Grove, which is an area of Cincinnati on the north east side. I was not expecting to move. I felt like I still had more to do in Oxford, but the Lord has decided otherwise. I am now the senior companion, and I get to drive. Our car is a 2013 Subaru Legacy. I love this car! My companion is Sister Wheeler. She is 21 and has been out for 3 months. The Ward here is amazing!!!!! They are so into missionary work that it's a little overwhelming. I don't even know where to begin, which is kinda a good thing.

But the most exciting thing is that Judy is getting baptized this weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can't even tell you how happy I am. And then Brianna is going to be baptized on the 21st. Finally, she made a decision! Mah! And Minnie is going to be baptized on the 28th. And there will be a baptism on the 14 of this month too. I cannot believe how many miracles are going on in Oxford. I also get to go to the baptism this weekend. Hopefully I can go to the others too...but I don't know if that is going to happen. I am so excited.

We also have a really good pool of investigators here that I will be working with. On Sunday we fasted specifically for a baptism in December for each companionship. So, at least one person in the month of December will join the Cherry Grove Ward and the Fold of the Savior.

I wish I had more time to tell you everything, but I have to go. But I know that this is the work of the Lord. There is absolutely nothing more important than missionary work. I know that God is a God of miracles and that He does provide for His children. I know that the Lord loves me. In the Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Love, Sister Worthen

"Wow" - Letter, November 25, 2013

Ok, so can I say that weeks like this are few and far between. Yes siree bob. But this email is going to be short (I think) because I don't have a lot of time.

1. It's transfer week, and guess who is leaving Oxford? Me. That's right folks, I am flying the coop. Except I don't want to go. I love this area sooooo much and the people and the missionaries I work with. And I am leaving. It's killin' me Smalls. But I know that I will love my new area. I can make anywhere home. I just wish it wasn't two days before Thanksgiving. That's what really kills me. Oh well.

2. Judy is Free!!!!!! We went to see her Thursday hoping to set an appointment up for Friday afternoon. Well, it ended up that she called her grandpa to come get her. She wanted out. Her boyfriend freaked out and wouldn't let her take the baby. So she had her sister and grandpa call the police on him. They got there and Judy froze up. She almost didn't get to take him. But she eventually did and she took all of her stuff and she left. But instead of living somewhere where she can now get baptized, she is living with her ex Connor, who is her daughter's dad. So, now she just needs to find a place to live where she has no men living with her. For many reasons. But that was a story to tell my grandkids. I was there when an investigator called the cops on her ex boyfriend (Daniel, who is her son's dad). I wish I could tell you more, but like I said, I am pressed for time.

3. Repentance: I am officially amazed. The other night, I was at a less active family's home. The previous week, I had asked them to read the Book of Mormon as a family. I asked them if they had been doing it. They gave me some lame-sauce answers. I joked around with them for a minute, but since we needed to go, I pulled out my scriptures to share a message with them. I opened to the verses listed below, not really knowing what to say. I read them to them, and then I told them that the little things like coming to church, reading the Book of Mormon, and keeping the Sabbath holy are small things that bring great things. The Spirit was so strong. The next day, I read about Amulek in the Book of Mormon. How he had resisted the call to do God's work for so long, and then finally had an angel come to him. Then he goes on to boldly call the people to repentance. I was discussing the chapter with Sis. Savage later and I said the story reminded me of me. I didn't have an angel come to me, but I do have a pretty awesome story. And then I asked if I had called them to repentance. I didn't know if that was what I had done, because I had never told them to actually repent. She said I had. When I started talking, she had no idea what I was saying, and neither did I. I was going off what the Spirit was telling me. I may not stand on a corner and call for people to repent and come unto Christ like Amulek, but we are pretty similar. That makes me happy. I don't mean to brag, but it was such an awesome experience that I thought I would share. I love the Gospel, and I love these people so much that when I am doing what I know is right, God will help me help others to know and do what it right. That is part of my calling as a missionary. I found a scripture in Alma 13:22-23 that talks about how angels are going forth with the voice of God to declare glad tidings. We as missionaries are those angels. I know that to be true.

I don't know what else to say. I know that this is the true church and that the Lord is present in our lives. We are His children and no matter what we may go through, our Brother Jesus Christ can truly help us overcome it. Look to the scriptures and look to the Lord. All things will be made right eventually. I say this in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen

Love, Sister Worthen

"Revelation" - Letter, November 18, 2013

Hello. Wouldn't. It. Be. Weird. If. We. Talked. Like. Robots? Just kidding. I have been in a strange mood lately. That's just another of the little quirks that have kept my life interesting this week. But this week has been much better than last. I have learned a lot and I am excited to share it with people. I have learned a lot especially about the Plan of Salvation.

So last week, our mission president met with some reps from SLC. They did some training with a bunch of the missionaries. They then came to us and trained us. We learned a few things that really are going to change the way I think of missionary work. The 1st Lesson: The Plan of Salvation can be summed up in one word: Revelation. Everything in that first lesson about the Restoration of the church is about revelation, personal or otherwise. The 2nd Lesson: The Plan of Salvation is summed up by the word Atonement. 3rd, the Gospel of Jesus Christ (faith, repentance, baptism, Gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end) is the Way, and the 4th Lesson: The Commandments is Building Faith. With this new view on the lessons we teach, I am going to go forward understanding exactly why I am here. And I have already seen the difference.

I have really been studying the Plan of Salvation a lot this week too. I have really come to understand it so much more. And as I have come to understand it, I have also come to LOVE it. I have this idea in my head, that is currently partially on paper, to make a game type map for the Plan of Salvation to use in my teaching. For some reason, I have been thinking about it a lot. But as I was drawing up a rough draft, the other day, I was reading the scriptures out of Preach My Gospel for each step of the Plan. I found so many things that I never knew were in the scriptures. Peter talks about how Christ taught people in the Spirit World after his death and before the Resurrection (1 Peter 3: 18-20 [including the foot notes on JST] and 4: 6). I was blown away. But the thing that really blew me away is Doctrine and Covenants 138. I read it today for the first time. I was amazed. I never knew where the doctrine of teaching those in Sprit Prison came from. Now I know it. In fact, I read it twice. I love this section. Read it. If you haven't, it will blow your mind. If you have, do it again and think about how the Plan of Salvation is nothing more than the Atonement. Try it. It might blow your mind again.

So, the past couple of weeks have been insanity...on my part. I have literally been battling insanity for no good reason. I am doing much better now. My insanity is being expressed in much more productive ways, I hope. But thanks to my amazing companion, I am doing better. We seem to take turns being nuts, as I am sure is common, but it's still funny. Two millennia from now I am going to look back and wonder what the heck I was thinking. And I will tell myself that I still have no idea. Hahahahah

Judy: I have to tell you. So her sister Minnie has been with her this week. We got both of them to church!!!!!! This was the 1st time that Minnie has really been to church since she was 12. She loved it. She got home and was telling us that she felt so good. We were like, "Minnie, that's the Spirit!" Now we just have to get her to quit smoking....And start teaching her the lessons. With her, she has just sat in on the lessons we have done for Judy. She wants to learn, now we are going to make it happen. WAhooo. Oh, and Judy has decided to move into a homeless shelter. As much as that sucks, it will be good for her in the long run. Yes!!!!! Her faith is increasing again and things are going to move forward. She is going to be baptized on December 7th! No doubt in my mind. I am so excited.

Ok, well, I am going to go. If you notice, there is now a signature line. I love these verses. Actually, I am really falling in love with all the standard works. I noticed the other day as I was reading this to a member that I could feel the Spirit so strong and that the way I was reading it was so different from how I read scriptures at home. It's not about the words so much as the feeling. We tell people that all the time, and I am finally starting to understand it.

I know the Scriptures are the words of God. They are diving and powerful. They hold the answers of eternity. And the scriptures include the words of the living prophets, not just what is in the Quad. I love the Word of God. Through them I have receive so much revelation and power. I KNOW that God speaks to us through them. I love the Gospel and the Church. I know that my Heavenly Father Loves me. In the Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Love,

Sister Worthen

"Our Purpose" - Letter, November 11, 2013

Ok, so this week has been a long one. Something has been in the air and it hasn't gone the way we planned it to. :( We had some really good plans, and most of them have fallen through. At the same time, we had some really amazing things go on.

1. Empty Bowls: So there is this thing that they do here in Oxford, well all around the world from what I understand, called Empty Bowls. It is a fundraiser that is seriously awesome!!!!!! So a group of people locally organize it, and they get bowls from all over. There is a do it yourself pottery shop here that is owned by a member. They donated about 200 bowls. And then they got donations from local artists, schools, and such. They bring them in to the place of the event, and then they sell the bowls, and a meal for $10.00. So you get soup and bread and desert and a drink. All the food is donated by people in the community. So our Empty Bowls was held at the local Methodist church. Friday night, we went and helped wash the bowls. We washed about 900, at least. Then the next day, the people come to the event. They came in and it was awe-inspiring to see that many people out. All the funds, and I mean all, go to the Oxford Community Choice Food Pantry, where Sis. Savage and I volunteer regularly. It was great. Oh, and you get to keep the bowl. They set them all out and you get to pick the one you want. Mah, it was great. And you can do this wherever. It's not an Oxford thing. It's all over apparently.

2. Judy: She picked a date. Yay! She decided that she is going to work on December 7, 2013. Now she just has to make it happen. God will be with her, and so will we. I realized last night that I have honestly done everything possible to make it happen, including house hunting, and now I am not responsible for her. She is going to have to do it. I will be there to help, but she has to find the strength to make it happen. It can't come from me.

3. Light bulb: Ok, along with the thought listed just above, I came to another point of understanding.  I was talking to my dad's secretary one day and we were talking about how people shelter their children and when they get out into the real world, it will slap them in the face. She made the comment that what happens in the temple is what the real world really is. At the time, it didn't make a whole lot of sense to me. Now it does. Every time I see someone who is in pain or having doubts about life, or families that aren't sealed, or when they don't understand how amazing the Gospel is, it always makes me think of the temple and the things that happen inside. We learn the most important things for us to know inside the temple, and without the temple, we cannot progress. When others don't want those blessings, or don't understand, they are then missing out on what the real world is really like. Without those temple ordinances, we cannot have Eternal Life, which is the greatest of the gifts of God.

4. Our Purpose: I also learned some stuff about what I am doing here, on a mission. I learned it this morning, to be exact. It was really cool. We took our purpose, and broke it down and defined words using both a normal dictionary and the Bible Dictionary. So, when we re-wrote it using the definitions, mine turned out like this:

Our firm intention is to ask others to arrive at the feet of Christ, and to support them as they react to the restored Good News that Christ has made and Atonement for us: by way of confidence in Jesus Christ; by them becoming one with Him and no longer being estranged from Him; by way of a change of heart and mind-a fresh view about God, themselves, and the world; by the sacred ordinance of baptism, so that they may remember their personal commitments to God; by way of receiving the power and capacity of the Holy Ghost in their lives; and by lasting to the limit of mortality and the eternities.

I know that I am called as a missionary so that I may help others do these things. I know that, and I am striving daily to fulfill my calling. In the Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Photo, November 11, 2013

Photos, November 4, 2013

The Fall in Ohio

This one (below) is the view from my street.

"...Ok?" - Letter, November 4, 2013

Ok, ladies and gents. This week has been interesting to say the least. I don't really know what to say about it. I have had some AMAZING experience, and some serious lows. All in the Lord's plan, I guess.

1. Paganism: This past week was Halloween, as you all know. One of the most blatantly pagan days of the year. Hahahahah But seriously, we didn't have a car because it was in the shop. So we had to walk everywhere. Which wouldn't have been bad, except for the rain, and wind, and cold. All. Day. Long. It actually wasn't that bad. My companion got colder than me, which is really unusual. Anyway, we didn't find anyone to teach because we were the only ones out and about. But we did get to go to the food pantry and help out there for a little while. I love the Food Pantry. The people there are awesome and the atmosphere is great.

Also, on the note of Paganism, I met one Saturday. We went to a local farmer's market and there was a lady selling her stuff and we talked and we found out that she is a pagan, and she is from Russia. She said she was raised under the mandatory atheist rule, and so she just kinda went with what she liked when she left. She was really interesting and really nice. So, now I can say I taught something to a pagan.

2. Oh, last week, I forgot to mention this, but I got to teach a lesbian, or rather two lesbians...if ya get my drift. Anyway, we went to find a former, and they weren't home, but their neighbors were on the porch. So, we taught them about the church's standing on gay and lesbian. She knew she was in sin, but she doesn't know how to deny what she feels. It's so weird. We run into people all the time who tell us that they know they should stop doing a sin, like smoking or living with someone, but they don't have a desire to stop. There is a guy here in the area who is over CES. He teaches institute on campus and we get to go. We brought this up, and he said that most sinners don't know a thing about sin, because they don't know what it's like to fight that fight and deny themselves. I think he's very accurate. But back to this lady, she doesn't live in this area, but she said she would be interested in learning more. So, potential...

3. Amen Sistah!: So I got to go to my 1st Gospel concert. Oh wow. So Candy, the lady that runs the Food Pantry, offered to give us tickets to a concert that her minister's wife was putting on to raise money for their church building. Her voice is amazing! I cannot believe how powerful it was. It was a little weird for me because they did it in the chapel, and I am not used to people acting like that in a chapel. But it was amazing. There was a lady that went into convulsions. hahahahah The lady next to her got up and switched places with someone so that she wouldn't have to deal with it. Anyway, after the concert, we went to their 'fellowshipping hall' and had treats. Candy introduced us to everyone that came over. It was so warm and genuine and wonderful. I loved it. And we got to talk with their Minister. He is a really nice guy. Candy and us have had some really amazing conversations about religion and God. That woman is so amazing!!! Now we just need to baptize her. hahahahahaha

4. Lost in a sea: God must have a serious sense of humor. I have really been trying to apply myself to the work here and to lose myself in it. Problem is, I am lost. I have been trying so hard to be a good missionary, that there are moments when I don't know who I am anymore. I know that I am supposed to teach and to bring other's to Christ, and I love that. But it's been a long process as far as the way God is molding me. I know that He will turn me into what He needs, but it's been interesting to see the differences He's made so far.

Alright, well, I don't have much to say. Sorry if I sounded negative. That' wasn't my intent. Nothing much has changed with anyone we've been teaching. Wait, I take that back! The Tobiases. Ok, so we got there on Friday night, and the one sister has been having a lot of health problems for a couple of months. So Sis. Savage took her aside and just had a heart to heart. She listened and helped her feel better, and despite Maddi's boyfriend continually interrupting, she got her to commit to being a new investigator. In the meantime, I talked with Kate. She is taking a couple of classes on religion, and they talked about Mormonism, and she had a lot of questions. For instance, they were taught that our 'bullet-proof underclothing" was given as an idea to Joseph Smith by Black Elk. So these are the misconceptions we are helping to fix. But anyway, I and the member with me taught her an amazing 1st lesson. And then at the end, I committed her to baptism. That house is always chaotic and crazy. But despite interruptions and confusion, there was a spirit of calm and peace that we have never felt there. It was so amazing. So, we are going to go back and teach Maddi the 1st lesson this Wednesday, and help her understand how the Gospel can fix her doubts. Super stoked!!!!!

Ok, well, I know that even when we don't think He is, God is paying attention to us. He know us and he is constantly interacting with us to make us into the people that He needs us to be. I know that I am a daughter of a Heavenly King, and that I am blessed beyond measure. I know that God is a God of Miracles and power, and that he does not vary from His promises. I know.

In the Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Love, Sister Worthen

Photo - October 28, 2013

The one on my back is Brianna and her mom is standing behind her.

"Head Banging" - Letter, October 28, 2013

So, there have been a few moments this past week where I just want to bang my head into the wall, because that might feel better than real life. Not really, but it has been a long week.

1. Judy: So on Monday evening, we left for Hamilton, about 30 min. away for exchanges with our Sister Training Leader. Our first night there, her sister sent us a message at about 11:45 and told us that Judy is missing. I didn't find out until morning, but at that point, I was freaking out. I didn't know what was going on, or where she went, or anything. So anyway, on Wednesday, after we came back from Hamilton, we went to her boyfriend's house to see if she was there. She was. Mahhhh!!!! Anyway, we met up with her on Friday and had a good lesson. We read from Alma 27. I love that chapter. The people of Ammon are my favorite group in the Book of Mormon. Anyway, if you read it, it is her story so much. But ya, she is doing 'ok'. We are just kind of at a standstill as to where to get her moved to. Blah

2. Brianna: She broke my heart last night. She went to Indiana last week to get her dad to give her permission. He told her that he wanted her to think about it some more. He didn't say no, but he didn't say yes. So we had a lesson with her and we talked about prophets and then we talked about baptism. She asked if she could be frank with us and told us that the she doesn't feel ready, and that she can't set a goal because she won't be ready by that goal. I told her that if she won't, not can't, work toward it, she won't be ready. Mah. That drives me nuts. If you won't work toward a goal, then how can you be ready?! You can't. I didn't yell that at her like I was inside my head. Hahahah. But anyway, it broke my heart because she doesn't to work toward a goal, and she doesn't want to talk about baptism anymore because the more we push, the harder she pulls. And the thing is, every time we talk about it, we feel the spirit so strong. I kinda feel like she is waiting for neon light in the sky telling her it's time. I don't mean to bash on her, I am just expressing how I feel. I love her so much that it kills me. I know what Heavenly Father feels for her, on a much smaller scale because I would explode if I felt all His love for her, but I want her to understand how amazing and wonderful she is. So I just want to hit my head against something hard. Dad always told me that if I had pain, he would injure me somewhere else. That would make the first one go away. Hahahahah (My dad is not psychotic or cruel) But I love her so much it hurts, and I just want to stop hurting and feel only love and peace. I have a long 14 months ahead of me. Hahahah

I don't know what else to say. It has been a long and interesting week. I love so much the people around me that sometimes, I am afraid I might explode. There are moments when I want to hit my head on something or punch the wall or scream at the top of my lungs. And then there are the wonderful moments when all is well, and I know that I am doing the right thing. I know that God hears our prayers. When we do what is right and when we do so know that God will bless us, we are given so much. God does know us, and He knows what we need. I know these things in the Name of Jesus Christ, Amen

Love, Sister Worthen

"Roller Coaster" - Letter, October 21, 2013

I have found that life as a missionary is much like a roller coaster. For some strange reason, people say it's fun, and that you will love it, and it can be and you will at times...but there are those moments when you realize how crazy you are for getting on this ride. You experience highs and lows, whiplash and nausea. But in the end, you always want to get back in that seat and strap yourself in again.

1. Judy: I will start with her today because she is on my mind most this morning. Things have been going great...sorta. We found out last week that she has a place to live. Her grandpa just signed a house over to her sister, and her sister said that her and the kids can come live with her. We were ecstatic about that. On Sunday (last week) we fasted with her and a member that she would find a place to live. She told us about this wonderful new development on Tuesday. Friday, we saw her and she said she is going to move out that night...but it didn't happen that way. Her boyfriend is a complete freak, and I say that because I can't use the kind of words I would like. He is so controlling and manipulative. He lives with his mommy, and is addicted to heroin. So when she tried to leave, it just went downhill. Judy's ex/daughter's daddy is around and last night he went in and took his little girl, Savanna, but Judy is still there. Sister Savage and I feel like she is about ready to leave, but she is going to have to do it on her own. Her sister is trying to help, and Connor, her ex, is trying to help, but we feel that what it is really going to come down to is her own strength and her reliance on the Savior. We know that she is strong, and when she leaves, it will be for real this time, but it won't be until the time is right. That's another thing I am learning here. There are times when you have to push through all the obstacles, and at other times, wait and walk around them when it's right to do so. So anyway, we are just waiting for word. I wanna go in there and take Brother Benton, who a big guy who would just love to put Daniel in his place. But I know that it's not the time for her to be out. When it's time, it will be time. I am worried, but not to the point that I'm forgetting to trust in the Lord.

2. Me: I am learning so much about myself. I am learning how to control my temper. That's a good thing for me. Before, I had a temper. Make me mad enough, and watch out. But I don't even get angry like I used to. It's been so strange to me. Don't get me wrong, I get mad, but not in the same way. I have more patience with others, and more love for them. I am learning about service, and how much love for the person being served it can bring me. I am learning that God and Christ can heal my wounds more fully than any Band-Aid or sad country song. I am learning how to rely on the Savior, and what the Atonement really means. There have been so many times where I know that I can't do something without His strength and His love and His help. There are moments when I want to quit, to go back to Ferron. But then comes the resilience that I could not muster by myself.

3. Other Things: So, we haven't had a whole lot of luck with our investigators this week. It has been really weird here, or actually all over. A lot of us have just been feeling out of it, like we are waiting for something, but nothing changes. So, I will tell you about some of the members. First off, the Loquillanos (Low-key-an-o): they are awesome. Eric has been a member his whole life, but has been active on and off most of his life. He has been a carnie, and he played the accordion very well. His wife, Amy, was raised Catholic, and she had nuns for aunts that would come over for holidays and get drunk, which she never liked. They love missionaries, and are amazing people. They are laid back and hilarious. I am so excited to come back and talk to them after my mission.

And then there are the Bentons. They also love missionaries. Greg went on a mission to the Navajo Reservation, and he loves talking about it. He is a big guy and he can be a little intimidating. We told Judy that if she needs his help, he would love to help. But he loves talking about the work. He truly understands how to help the missionaries. If he had room in his home, he would allow the missionaries to live there in his house. His wife is just as awesome. Neither of them will put up with any crap from people, and they are not afraid to discipline missionaries. They have put a few in their place. So, I need to keep obedient, if not for the work, just to avoid their wrath. Hahahaha. Not really, on my part, but really they would put me in my place if I stepped out of line.

Well, I will tell you more about the branch later.

4. Testimony: I have seen miracles and monstrosities. I have been witness to the Power of God and the captivity of the Devil. And each time that one or the other comes to the front, I cannot help but turn to my God. Only He can help me. Satan does nothing but drag us down to the gulf of misery and endless woe. I know that God will uplift me and those whom I meet. He knows how to succor His people, and He will bless me to know how to do that as well. I KNOW that exact obedience cannot do anything but bring us closer to Christ. We MUST keep the Sabbath Day holy. We MUST follow the Word of Wisdom. We MUST listen to the prophets when they speak, for they speak with the tongues of angels, which is by the power of the Holy Ghost. I know that as people live the commandments, they are blessed with peace, love, harmony with one another and God, and with the strength that they need to endure to the end. I know these things in the Name of my Savior, my Redeemer, my strength and guide, Amen.

Love, Sister Worthen

Photos, October 21, 2013

"Learning" - Letter, October 14, 2013

Ok, so this week has been a great week as far as learning new things. We have both learned a few things that have been very helpful to us.

1. Deer DON'T Stop: Last night we went to a less active's home. We love the Rednours. They live way out in the sticks. In fact, they live the farthest away from us. But on our way home, it was dark. I was on the phone with our district leaders getting ready to tell them our numbers for the week. I saw a deer running toward the road. I said, "Deer!" But she kept going. She didn't slow down. Then the deer hit the side of the car. She screamed, and then said, "I thought it would stop!" I got off the phone with my poor district leader who had heard all of this. And then I busted up laughing. Deer don't stop for cars. She learned that one real fast. And then she proceeded to speed home. The car is dented, but not broken.

2. Judy: Judy is doing ok. I can tell she is getting tired. I would be too if I was in that situation. I don't know how she does it. Honestly, I would lose my mind if I was stuck with people that I didn't want to live with. Ok, I have had that experience, and I almost did go crazy. But I had ways to escape. She doesn't. She is stuck there. The car doesn't work most of the time, she has two little kids, and since the government shut down, she has absolutely no income. Oh, and she can't get a hold of the lady who was going to get her into housing. So she has no options right now. But she has decided to get a job. She is has applied to a bunch of places, and is going to continue until she gets a job. Yesterday we fasted for her, but I don't know what will happen. We are afraid that it will be more than she can handle right now. I don't think it will be, but there is always that fear in the back of my mind. I pray for her all the time. With her, I am learning patience and long-suffering.

3. Brianna: I finally figured it out!!! I know why now is not the time. Her grandpa is the branch mission leader. We have to go to him because he has a special needs son that is hard to handle. So anyway, we get there and he's not home, but is will be shortly. We talked to his wife for a while. We got on the subject of Brianna and asked her how that situation might be able to change. What she thought would help. And as we were talking, it hit me. She is ready. Her mom is not. For the first time in 20+ years, she is reading the Book of Mormon. For the first time, she is praying. For the first time, her testimony is being kindled. So, as we talked, I began to understand that what Brianna needs is for her mom to be in the right place. I don't think it will be her coming back to church yet, but she Shari is ready, things will happen really fast. And I wouldn't have been able to get that revelation without Sister Baier. So with Brianna, I am learning that it's not always the person, but the people around them.

4. Service: We have been challenged by our STL (Sister Training Leader) to serve at least one member a day. We have tried this and found that as we do so, as well as other things, that we are seeing the Spirit work more here. We randomly had a member call us and tell us that she'd found a guy who's girlfriend at Duke is a member. They are both from Malawi? who said he might like to meet with us sometime. So, just by showing our love and devotion to God's children, we are being directed to more of his Children. I've leaned that service can make all the difference.

I have learned here in Oxford it's not always about finding people and then teaching them everything in 3 sit downs, and then baptizing them. It's about patience, and love, and sucking-it-up when it hurts. It's about relying on the Lord, and not being focused on the numbers. It's about serving the members every day, and working with them. Helping them to understand how to do missionary work. It's about having love, a pure love, from Heavenly Father for everyone you meet. After about 3 weeks of being here, I could not go down the street without seeing people in white. That came from a pure love. I want that back, and the above is how I will make it happen. I know that as we keep His commandments, ALL OF THEM, we are blessed. We learn, we grow, and eventually, we can become exalted.

I love this Gospel, and I love teaching it. There is nothing better. I say this in the Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Love, Sister Worthen

"Miraculous​!!! (Say it in French, it sounds better)" - Letter, October 7, 2013

Ok, this has been a long week. I have been going through a spiritual growth, I hope, and have learned some things that I needed to hear.

1.) Coarse as Salt: We went on exchanges this week with my Sister Training Leader. They are kind of like zone leaders, but for sisters. Anyway, I got to go to a lesson with Sister Green. It was really cool to watch her teach. She is so relaxed and she had so much fun. I learned a lot from her. The lesson that we went to is actually the one I called Brazil in my last letter. Her name is April, and she lives with her son and her boyfriend. They seem really into the Gospel. April really prepared for the Gospel. She had so many questions that we helped answer. I am so glad about that.

But the other thing that she told me is to lighten up. I guess I have had a hard time being relaxed here. I don't want to allow any 'weaknesses' come through, so I hide them by being all tough and rough. She told me that I come off as coarse. Five months ago, I would have smiled if someone told me that. Strange, I know. But I would have. I would have accepted that as proof that I am not girly and petty, and whatever else. Don't ask why. But I did realize that I need to relax. I can be tough. But I don't have to be terse. I can be bold, but not bleak. I can show my love and enthusiasm without having to be the harsh person that I can be. Elder Christofferson mentioned a quote about how the world needs less coarse women, and more kind women. I am fiercely loyal, kind, generous, and sweet. But here, I have overlooked the fact that while some of those things can be weaknesses, when taken advantage of, can also be strengths. And my problem is that I am afraid of that side of myself. So, I am going to try to be more kind and less coarse. We will see how it happens.

2.) Judy!!!: So, this week has been great for her. She came to a lesson at the church, and as soon as she walked in, I could see how amazing she was. I can tell a huge physical difference in her from the time we met her until now. She has grown so much and has come so close tot he Savior. And guess what! She found an organization that will get her free housing, and very likely a car, within a week to two weeks!!!! That was our fast on last Sunday, and when we heard that, we were so excited for her. Also, there is a slight chance that she might be able to move in this week, which would mean getting baptized this weekend!!!!! We need all the prayers we can get brothers and sisters. She is ready. She is so ready, and we just need this one last thing. Oh, and thank you for the prayers already. I know that this would be impossible without them. And at the lesson we had with her, we went and showed her the font. One of our branch missionaries was there because the priesthood always do an ice cream social before their session, and so they were there. Judy said that while she was at the font, she could feel the Spirit even stronger than when she finished the Book of Mormon, which is a lot. She also told us that while we are in the church building, she can see a glow around the heads and shoulders of the people that are in the building. Ahhh. She is amazing. And, we are getting her ready for the temple. She wants to be baptized for her mom, who has been gone for about 3 years. How awesome is that. She is already looking toward a temple marriage. There are not enough words in all the world to describe this woman. I love her so much!!!!

3.) Conference: I loved it. I learned a lot. And how many of you picked up the idea that we need to keep our covenants more fiercely, and to also do missionary work. Because when we went into that water, we promised to do as the Savior did. Did he just sit around and wait for the apostles to do all the work? NO!!!! He got up and went to work, showing them how to do it. He called others to repent, and healed, and fought tooth and nail for what He thought was right. What are you doing? Are you sitting around, waiting for someone else to feed the missionaries? Are you going out with them to teach. Are you praying for missionary experiences? When was the last time you said anything about revelation you received on FB or twitter? Brothers and Sisters, the missionary work begins with you. Like was said, pick one person to pray for, and then do it. Pray to find something to invite them over for, and do it. And then pray for the strength to ask them to meet the missionaries. And DO IT!!! Don't wait for me or for someone else to find those people. I, as a missionary, can't do it alone. We need help, and we need your help. You made covenants, binding contracts with GOD HIMSELF!!!! to do His work here on Earth. Remember that.

4.) Brianna: This week, I feel like we have had a breakthrough. She has constantly been telling us that she doesn't feel ready to be baptized. I finally asked her how she is going to know when she is. She was very correct when she told us that she was waiting for a testament from the Holy Ghost. We asked her if she had prayed specifically for that. She aid no. Well then, how do you get that if you don't ask? You don't. Anyway, that is her commitment this week. So, when we go talk to her, I am praying that she will have receive that answer she has been waiting for. She reminds me so much of me, it blows my mind. Ok, %.) Well, I think that is all for this week. I love you all. Keep up being so amazing. I have a firm testimony of miracles. They come every day, in the rising of the sun, and the whisper of the wind. They come in forms like finding Utah Mormons in Italy at a Subway. They come in people feeling the Holy Ghost and receiving revelation for themselves and those they love. They come when we least expect them and need them most. I know that God is a God of miracles, and that His work is moving forward. In the Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Love, Sister Worthen

"Hmmm..." - Letter, September 30, 2013

Ok. Here it is. This week has been an interesting one. It has been a good week for learning about the area and about ourselves. I have received revelations for myself that I know are going to help me in the work that I do.

On a funny note, this week we had to get the oil changed. They told us that we could leave the car and come back for it later. So we went walking around town. The funny part came when I tripped, and went flying. I totally skinned both of my knees. Not bad, but I have scabs on both of them. I must have looked pretty ridiculous when I fell.

1.) Sam. Sam is amazing. I don't know if I told you all about him, but this is great. We found Sam while out street contacting a couple of weeks ago. He knew that we were missionaries and that we taught people about Jesus Christ. Why? Because his family in Columbus is taking the lessons, and while he was home for the summer, he heard some of the stuff that they taught. But he has 3 much younger siblings and so he didn't get to learn as much as possible. So, when we found him, he wanted to learn more. His family is from Ghana and he is really humble. When we talked to him at the lesson, we had a member there and she made things go so much smoother than we could have. She asked all the right questions and said all the right things. It was great. And so we taught the 1st lesson about the Restoration. The Spirit in that room was sooo strong. And at the end of the lesson, he said a prayer that made me fog up a little, it was so beautiful. We committed him to baptism. But it wouldn't have been as awesome if we hadn't had a member there with us who had a strong testimony of the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith. So, this week, pray about the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith (even if you already have, do it again), and then do something with the missionaries. Go to a lesson with them, or better yet, invite them and their investigators to have a lesson in your home where the Spirit can be even more present. It works. I promise.

2.) Judy. I still love her to death. Our only problem is that her boyfriend is a jerk. He is sooo controlling. We have been doing lessons at the park with her, and recently he has been following us down there so that he can keep an eye on her. He pretends to be helping with the kids but a lot of the time, he just stands there over us, trying to be scary, but let me tell you. He fails. You know what he's doing and all it does is make things awkward. So, next time he does that, we are going to ask him to join. If I ask him, I might just tell him how awkward it is when he stands there and that he is more than welcome to join the conversation. Who knows. But ya, we can't get her to baptism until we get her moved out. Yesterday, we fasted that she would have a place to move into by this Friday. I have faith that the Lord truly will make it happen.

3.) Brianna. So, my dad just sent me an email that I think is going to be the key. In it, he mentioned a story where and investigator knew it was right, but just wasn't getting baptized. The mission president actually met him and told him that sometimes, all you need to do is take that leap of faith and do something, and the rest will come. I think that with Brianna, that is going to be it. She keeps hesitating because she doesn't have permission from her dad and she doesn't think he has time for her. But we told her last night that if she asks him to call her, he will. Daddy's have a soft spot for their baby girls. So, while we were there, we had her send him a message telling him to call her. Honestly, action is going to be the best medicine for her.

4.) Kate. So Kate is awesome. She is part of a larger family that the missionaries have been working with for a while. She has two kids, who have told us that they want to grow up to be Mormons. Kate is fine with that. But Kate is really confused right now. She is taking a couple of religion classes at MU and is learning what the world things about God. She had no idea that there were so many different views. She is starting to doubt the Bible, and is so unsure about what is what. But when we come in and clarify on ideas, she accepts it. She doesn't question what we believe, or why. She told us the other day that between the two classes, and us, she is learning more about God than she ever did in church. And she finds more understanding, I think, about God from us than she does the class. We taught them the Restoration, after a year at least of missionaries being there. When we did the 1st Vision, we asked how she felt and she said she feels calm. Now, Kate does not get a lot of calm. Ever!!!!! So we told her that that was the Holy Ghost testifying of truth and then we invited her to be baptized. She didn't respond, but I know it made her think. We love Kate. She is getting more than the normal investigator stuff though. Because of her class, she has a lot of questions, and so she asks us about a lot of stuff. I love it though.

5.) Brazil. No, there is no one named Brazil, but that is a cool name for a person. Anthony and Leigh, I wouldn't think Brazil is too weird...off topic. Ok, so on our way back from our weekly meeting, we stopped at a little drive in burger place to get lunch. While we were there, there was a lady that I saw coming up the parking lot. When she got to the window and was looking at the menu, she looked at me and my badge and asked about our church. I told her, and we got into a conversation. She seemed so sad and lost. But we kept talking and eventually, SHE ASKED US if she could be baptized and if that was something that we do as Latter Day Saints. We said absolutely. The reason that I say Brazil is that in my first transfer meeting, when I got here, Pres. Porter told us that this mission would become like Brazil, where people walk up to us on the street and ask to be baptized. It happened. Brazil in America!!! Sadly though, we had to turn April, oh and she wants the same for her son, over to the missionaries who's area we were in. Like I said, we stopped on the way home. But how blinkin' awesome is that? She asked us!

Ok, well, that is my week. I love you all, and I know that this Gospel is true. There is nothing more amazing than to help others find Christ in their lives.

Love, Sister Worthen

Photos, September 23, 2013

I woke up one day and found 11 bug bites on my legs.  I started to freak out a little because I thought they were bed-bug bites.  But we are pretty sure they are mosquito bites.  We were somewhere where there were a lot of skeeters.

Us at the food drive.  The vest is a Mormon Helping Hands vest.

"Hey, Hey!!!" - Letter, September 23, 2013

Hey all you awesome people. I hope you are doing fantastic, because I am. I always feel weird writing this email. I don't really know what to say. But here goes. So this week has been really good. We haven't found as many people, but we have had some amazing experiences.

1.) Judy. Judy is amazing. We went and saw her Friday and she was on Alma 35, about. It took her less than a month to get that far. Crazy, huh? I know members who have never read that much that fast. But then we went back Saturday, and she had finished it, and then started over and was about to 2nd Nephi. In One Night!!!!!! She told us that as she had been reading it, she felt the Spirit, but not anything like we had lead her to believe. And then as soon as she finished it, she had this amazing feeling come over her and she loved that feeling so much that she started over. How insane is that. She knows the Gospel is true. And she is really developing Christ-like attributes. She said that before she met us, she cussed all the time, and that she doesn't like gossiping anymore, or even fighting with her boyfriend. And on the last, when he starts in, she just tells herself that she has Jesus on her side, and then walks away. Blows my mind. Blows it clean away. I don't really know how to describe her. If only we could get her out of her house. She has accepted the Law of Chastity, but she literally has no place to go. So, this week, that is one of our tasks. And we are involving the branch in it too. So, if we can get them excited about helping her, maybe they will be more excited in general.

2.) We have come up with a plan to get the members involved, beyond just Judy. We are going to focus on them a little more this week, and in every home we are going to share miracles from other missionaries, and from us too. But we have been doing this thing as a mission where every time we have a miracle, we send it to the rest of the mission via voicemail. So we are going to let people listen to some of those. We are going to pray before we enter their homes to help us focus the conversation on the work, and not on other stuff. And then we are going to organize a two week long challenge for them to focus on missionary work, and at the end do a soup night where they all invite someone. We don't know quite when yet, but we are excited about this. A lot of the revelations I have been getting in my study the past couple of days is for the members.

3.) We helped collect food for a food drive Saturday. Last Saturday, we distributed about 1100 door tags, not just us, and then this weekend we went and collected the food. We got 1111 lb. of food. The food drive is part of a greater food drive called Feed Ohio, and we worked in conjunction with the local Bethel AME church to get it done. The food went to a food pantry called the Oxford Choice Pantry. It's really a cool place. We volunteer there a few times a month and we really like it there. The lady who runs it is amazing. She really cares for the people there.

So, a little sad news. I told you all last week about getting Brianna and Judy on date for the 28th. Neither one of them are going to make it. Judy can't move out until she has money for a place to live, and a place to live, and Brianna is like me: as in she has to make sure she knows everything. I'm not like that now, but when I was 12, I was an adult. I know adults who are more child-like than I was when I was that age. But she doesn't feel like she knows enough to be baptized. That and she has to get permission from her dad, who is Catholic. They have to drive to Indiana to get that from him. They can't do it over the phone or letter or anything. So, we are working toward the 12th now. But when I say she wants to know everything, I mean everything. She wanted to read the whole Bible before she got baptized. We told her that wasn't needed, and that neither of us had ever read it all the way through. But that is Brianna.

Well, my well has run dry. I love you all, and am praying for you. I know that the Gospel is true, and that no matter what, the Lord will be there to help us. He knows us and pays attention to us. If we turn to Him, he will be there to help us out. I love this Gospel, and I am so glad to be able to teach others about it.

Love, Sister Worthen

"It's a Miracle!!!" - Letter, September 16, 2013

Hola. How are you? I hope great because that is how I am feeling. We have had some really amazing experiences this week. Ok, so first, Judy. Judy continues to blow our minds away. No joke. We had a lesson with her on Friday about the Law of Chastity. Awkward right? Wrong. Earlier in the day, I was freaking out about it, because she lives with her boyfriend. I was nervous because I thought she was going to tell us that she never wanted to see us again, and she was all offended, and all kinds of crap that Satan wanted to put into my head. So I started to pray really hard that the Lord would lead us in the things that we said. So when we got there, the lesson was great. It was sooo smooth and not awkward at all. I really felt the Spirit guide me as I spoke to her so that she would be able to understand it. And so she is going to find her own place to live. And that's the other thing. She had told us at a previous meeting that she wanted to find a place for her to live away from her boyfriend and his mom and her boyfriend where she can raise her kids in a good atmosphere. And so when she told us that, we were sooo excited about it. She is sooo prepared for us. We talked to her afterward and she told us that every time that we are coming over for a lesson, she starts thinking about stuff, and then we come and answer those questions that she has been thinking about. Oh my goodness, it is really amazing how prepared she is. And guess what!!!! She came to church, and we have gotten permission to go ahead with her baptism early. Normally, we need to get a person to church three times before we can get them baptized. And now we will be able to get her baptized by the 28th of September instead of the 5th of October. We are stoked for it. And the Brianna. Little Brianna. She reminds me of me when I was that age. You know, the adult in a child's body. That is this girl. So anyway, Wednesday, we went over there and got into the apartment for the first time. And we invited her to be baptized on the 28th. We told her to pray and to think about it. Yesterday, we were doing our studies and Sister Savage suggested that we do a prayer to know whether we should push harder if she says she wanted to wait, or just let her wait. We felt that we should push harder. President Porter keeps telling us that if we use the Spirit in situations like that and are bold, we will be successful. If we don't have the Spirit, then we are being pushy and rude. So we felt the Spirit so strong. It was amazing. We both testified of how important this is going to be for her and how much she really is prepared because she was saying that she didn't feel like she knew enough. We told her that because of that, that she wanted to understand and to be ready, and because she understands that it is important, she is prepared. And then she told us that her dad has to sign a paper, and he might not be able to get that to her in time. And I just had the strongest feeling to tell her that as a Missionary of the Lord, I have the right to promise her that if she wants this, the Lord will make it happen. I cannot tell you how powerful it was for me to say that to her. I walked out of the apartment and I started laughing because I realized that I had just made a prophesy for her. Crazy. I laughed because it was a surreal experience. But the Spirit was sooooo strong while we were there. And then the other night, we found two new investigators. The first's name is Kayla. We started talking to her and all I could see in my mind was this flashing neon sign saying, "SHE'S PREPARED!!!!". It was really cool. So we are going to try to meet with her this week. But really, she is ready for the Gospel. And then that same night, we found the second. His name is Sam and he had started taking the discussions with the missionaries in Columbus this past summer. So we are going to meet with him on Saturday, and hopefully get him to the waters of baptism by the end of this transfer. Oh my goodness. We have seen miracle after miracle after miracle. I am so excited. I know that this is the TRUE gospel of Jesus Christ. There is nothing else that can compare to what we have. I love you all, and I want you to know that the Savior loves each of us. And then I am going to leave you with a quote I found in True to the Faith this morning. "You will find that forgiveness can heal terrible wounds, replacing the poison of contention and hatred with the peace and love that only God can give."

"Greetings from Oxford" - Letter, September 9, 2013

How are you? I hope you are all doing well. I am doing fine. In fact, I slept really well last night, and so I feel really good today. I didn't fall asleep, or almost fall asleep, during study time today. I have been fully awake. I love it.

So this week, we taught Judy. It was a really good lesson. She is so ready to do what it takes to make it to heaven, but we can't get her to church. It makes us so sad. And because we can't get her to church, we have to reschedule her baptism until the first Saturday in October. We were originally aiming for the 21 of September. Oh well. We love her so much. She is such a wonderful person, and she wants what's right for her and for her kids. If only we could get her to church.

Ok. So this is really cool. This past week was transfer week, and in our zone, we got three new sets of missionaries. That means that we got 6 new missionaries, and we are expecting at least three new companionships within the next two transfers. Currently, we have 14 companionships. We have the largest zone in the mission, and we consist of the leaders of the mission. We are nothing but leaders. We have the AP's, 3 sister specialized training leaders (like zone leaders, but for sisters), two? district leaders, and everyone of the missionaries, except our zone leaders, are training new missionaries. So that means that we have a lot of leaders. People should look up to us to find answers. So, we have set some really amazing goals. For this month, we as a zone, are aiming for 230 member present lessons, which are vital!, 210 new investigators, and 15 baptisms. In October, we are aiming for 310 new investigators, 410 in November, and 510 in December. Can you imagine how many people that is. If you do the math, that is over 1000 first lessons alone. And we don't have numbers for member presents and baptisms decided yet, but that number will also increase. How amazing is that? Oh, and Sister Savage and I have prayed and we believe that there will be 6 baptisms in this transfer alone in our area of Oxford. That is almost half of the zone goal! But while we were talking about goals, the idea was raised that if we allow our doubt to overcome our belief these goals will never happen. So, our new motto has come from Mark 9: 23, 24 (think). It's when the dad brings his son to Christ and asks him to cast out the devil and heal him. Christ tells him that if he believes, all things are possible. He replies, "Lord I believe. Help thou mine unbelief." So, that is our motto. We are going to pray so hard to overcome our doubt.

Yesterday, our branch president pulled us out of RS and told us that he is going to get a Face Book page ready for the branch, and wants us to be involved in that. We can't yet, but we will as soon as we receive training for it. But he was sooooo excited. I have never seen him so excited about anything. He is so excited for missionary work. He wants so much for his branch, but the members haven't been ready. But I think they are now. So the work is going to explode! I am really happy.

Well, I don't have a lot to say this week. I will let you go. But pray for us. This is a miraculous goal, and one that will be impossible if the Lord is not involved. But with Christ, all things are possible. I love you all, and am praying for you. Keep up the good work. The Gospel is true, and this is the only correct church on the earth.

Love, Sister Worthen

"I ran out of subject titles" - Letter, September 4, 2013

This week has been really good. The students are back, and we have been trying to talk to them as much as possible. A lot of them are really receptive, and would be willing to hear about more of the Gospel. The problem is that they are really busy. So, my companion and I have been thinking of other ways to get them to hear a lesson. We have been thinking that we can do group lessons on campus, and invite the young single adults in the branch to take part in the lesson. We think this would be really great to get people together, and then it's less awkward because we aren't just going to their appartment, but rather are doing things in a really casual way. I love that we can be on campus. I am really surprised though. The major religion here is Catholic. I was expecting a lot other groups, but the vast majority of them are Catholic. Don't get me wrong, we have run into a lot from other denominations.

It makes me kind of sad though. A lot of the other churches are really involved in the community. Ours is not. They are great people. But they keep to themselves. So, we have been trying our best to think of ways to get our name out there. We have been inviting a lot of people to church. But we need other things to get people involved in. Any ideas?

It's been good, but also odd. We feel like we have been doing really good as a companionship, but we just can't seem to get any return appointments. We are working really hard, always trying to find ways to better ourselves, but we just are not getting there. I guess I should be patient. I am grateful for all the things that we have seen happen already, but we want to do more. I just don't know what else we can do. But we keep praying and working hard, and I know that things will happen.

We just met a guy, whose name is Lonnie, at Walmart. He said he would call us and let us come and teach him more about the church. He was really curious. He checked us out. He is 23, and started asking us about the church as soon as he saw my nametag. His dad is a preacher, and he has no problem going to church. But he hasn't been going to church. He says, "I am in college, and I do college things, and I don't want to lie to God." It was really funny. But he was really nice. It was a miracle.

Oh, and Marcia. We have been helping her pack. She is this 60+ year old lady. We love her to death. She is a non-member, and she loves having us over. She is our Amulek. She knows what we go through, being so far from home. She loves letting us in. She has had a lot of missionaries over the years. She doesn't want to learn about the Gospel, but loves talking about God. Yesterday, while she was out smoking (she shouldn't-she's on oxygen and has COPD) we told her about church on Sunday. She asked how it went. We told her about Sacrament meeting, and how we are all invited to share her testimonies. She asked us if we would share ours, and then she shared hers. It was really cool, and caught us off guard. Oh, so Saturday we were helping her pack. We got there at 11:00, and knocked. She didn't answer. We rang the doorbell, and then we heard her call for us to come in. There she was in the doorway to the kitchen in her nightgown, and there was a young black man laying on her couch. So we went in, and went straight to the kitchen. he wasn't dressed, I could tell, but thankfully he did have his blanket pulled up all the way. It was awkward. So while we were in the kitchen, he got dressed, and came in and was talking to us and Marcia. Eventually, we started packing. He stuck around to help us pack. He actually was really nice, and asked us a lot of questions about missionary work. We answered them all. So anyway, all day long, I knew that he needed to hear about the Gospel, and not just the work we do, but it never really felt right. So we wanted to be up on High Street to do some contacting. We left her with a scripture, Alma 7:11-13, about the Atonement. D'Andre jumped right in and started talking to us about it. It was really cool. So anyway, we left, and we came back about and hour and a half later. Marcia wanted to have dinner with us. So we came back. D'Andre opened the door. Marcia was asleep. We came in and just sat down and had a really cool conversation about the Gospel. This is a man who has really SEARCHED for Truth. He has read the Bible, Koran, and several other religious texts. And he has felt like there is truth in each one, but not all truth. We handed him a Book of Mormon, and told him it is all right there. And then we told him about Joseph Smith and the 1st Vision. After Sister Savage recited it, she asked how he felt. He responded, "Wow, that's intense, and you know, It's true!" We were so happy to hear that. I wanted to do a happy dance. I didn't. But we then invited him to be baptized. He accepted. Oh, before all this, he actually asked what it takes to become a Mormon. Come on. That doesn't happen in real life. But honestly, we feel like we are going to get that a lot. Anyway, we had found out earlier in the day that he smokes marijuana, not cigarettes, but weed. So we told him he would have to give that up. But he wasn't too upset about that. It was so amazing. And he could feel the Spirit. Great. Just Great!!!! Anyway, Marcia woke up not too long after. We ended up spending the rest of the night there. But when we sat down to eat dinner, he told us that he really liked spending time with us. He could feel how different we were, and he like that our whole purpose is Jesus Christ, and the way we made him feel was really nice. He's not used to that. That really made me feel good.

Too bad we have to hand him over to another set of missionaries. He doesn't live in our area. And if you are wondering why a young, black man was asleep on the couch of 65 year old woman, it's because Marcia is a good Samaritan. She really is. She wants to help people as much as possible. And she has a heart as big as the whole out doors. We love her.

Well, I love the Gospel. I know it's true. There is nothing that can bring us closer to Christ than this. I love you all, and I hope the Good Lord keeps you while we are apart.

Love, Sister Worthen

"Hola!!!!" - Letter, August 26, 2013

So. This week. I don't really know what to say. I can't believe that I have been here for just over a month, which means that I have been gone from home for a month and a half, which means that I only have 16 1/2 months left. I can't believe it. The time has just gone by so fast. But I have had a really good time. There have been ups and downs and sideways and backwards ways, and who know what else. But I think that I am doing pretty good.  

This week especially as been pretty good. So, yesterday, the stake president was released. He was the stake president for 10 years, and a councilor for 2 more before that. Long time to spend in the stake presidency. Anyway, guess who came to release him and call the next one! Elder Dallin H. Oaks!!!!! It was great. I can't believe how friendly he was. Before the meeting, he went out into the congregation and shook as many hands as he could, which I think was most of the stake. What! And then, after conference, we (the missionaries) had a special meeting with him. No one else was there except the Ohio Cincinnati Mission. It was great. So he has a great sense of humor. To me, he has always been a little, not humorless, but serious. Serious is the word I am looking for. But he was cracking jokes and making us laugh. I was a little surprised. But anyway, in conference, he called a little boy up onto the stage, and then took his jacket off and put it on him. He explained that the mantle of a calling is AWLAYS too big, but God will always help us to grow into it. It was really cool to see him be so involved with the audience. He then talked about a personal experience where, as a general authority, he learned a huge lesson from a lady in the congregation. I know that they are human, but it still just amazes me when they talk about their learning experiences. But anyway, conference was great. And then, earlier this week, Pres. Porter called me and asked if I was any good at singing, and if any of the other sisters that came out with me could sing. I gave him some names and then we hung up. Saturday, one of the Assistants to the President (AP) called me and asked if I could sing at the special fireside Elder Oaks was doing. Of course I said yes! I really felt privileged to be asked to sing for and Apostle of God. Anyway, we went straight from conference to another building and we practiced. We sang I Know that My Redeemer Lives. There were about 20 of us in the choir. We were all specifically chosen. I am so honored to have been able to do that. The arrangement was absolutely beautiful. And it felt sooooo good to sing in a choir again. I really miss that here. I missed it at SUU. But anyway, it was a really cool experience.

As far as the actual work in my area goes, we have a couple of investigators. I have told you about most of them. But I don't remember if I told you about Judy. Or maybe I did. I am going to pretend I did. Anyway, we have had two lessons with her this week, and they were both really powerful. If we can get her to keep her commitments, we are planning on her being baptized on September 21! And check this out. So my companion and I have prayed, and we feel like there will be six people baptized by October 17! That is between now and the next transfer meeting. We have transfers on the 5th of September. So, pray for me and my companion. We really feel like it's possible, but we need all the help we can get.  

Oh, this is really funny. I taught my first drunk this week. hahahahahah Her name is Dorothy Shannon. She is really nice, but also addicted to beer and cigarettes. She doesn't have a couch, and so she has cot in her living room. We sat on either side of her and we talked about God and church. She sounds like she has had some really cool experiences. She also said God told her to Do Right! Which she recognizes as giving up those poisons. But she just keeps them up. We are going back tonight, and hoping that she is sober, so that we can teach her about the Word of Wisdom and how to feel the Holy Ghost. She kissed us both on the cheek twice. It was really funny.

As far as the Tobias Family goes, we are going to try and get the kids on date sometime this week. Their mom is totally OK with us getting them baptized. She recognizes that they are old enough to choose for themselves. We really like the Tobias. They are great people.  

Well, I have run out of things to say. I love you, and I know that the Gospel is true. Peace be with you. Talk soon.

Sister Worthen